Utilizing two-factor authentication is a simple measure that can bolster your IT security practices.
A straightforward yet essential part of your business’ IT security systems is leveraging two-factor authentication. Chances are, you already participate in this security measure when you do things like withdrawing cash from an ATM or when you log into a personal and private account, such as accessing your patient portal for health services. In short, when using two-factor authentication, a user is proving their identity twice, which can supplement your organization’s various other IT security practices.
How Does Two-Factor Authentication Work?
Two-factor authentication is a security measure by which the user enters their standard log-in information, such as a password. Then, the user is prompted to enter a verification code sent to another already trusted device. Therefore, for an account to be breached, the intruder must know not only the password but also the verification code that is typically on a separate device. Adding this additional layer of digital security lowers the chances of unauthorized access to the network, as well as reducing your chances of being targeted for this type of hack.
Another interesting thing to note about most two-factor methods is that the verification code only lasts for a limited amount of time and would have to be generated again for a new session. This code verification is only one example of the many different types of multi-factor authentication systems in use today.
Two-factor authentication is based on three ways to authenticate: something you can have, something you can know, and something you are. Requiring two separate ‘somethings’ from two of the categories creates a secure method for confirming you are who you say you are. Implementing this security measure can bolster other security measures in place for business networks.
Why Is Two-Factor Authentication Important?
Two-factor authentication is a simple first step a business can implement both on their customer-facing side as well as their enterprise interface. All business owners would agree that being able to handle your customer’s data safely is of the utmost importance. If even one customer’s information is lost or stolen, this can spell trouble for the business. Some argue that two-factor authentication belongs among other ethical guidelines for general IT security. Nonetheless, any IT expert and consultant should advocate implementing this security measure wherever and whenever possible.
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